Karnataka Leadership Crisis: Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar Clash Over Rotational Chief Minister Promise

New Delhi:

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has responded to his deputy's "Word power is world power" remark, intensifying tensions in the ongoing leadership tussle. "A Word is not power unless it betters the World for the people," Siddaramaiah stated firmly.

He further emphasized, "The mandate given by the people of Karnataka is not a moment, but a responsibility that lasts five full years. The Congress party, including me, is walking the talk for our people with compassion, consistency, and courage. Our Word to Karnataka is not a slogan, it means the World to us."

The dispute centers around an alleged rotational Chief Ministership agreement that DK Shivakumar's supporters claim was promised during government formation in 2023.

According to Team Shivakumar, party leadership had convinced him to accept the deputy position under Siddaramaiah with assurances of rotation. Siddaramaiah has denied such promises were made, while central Congress leaders have maintained silence on the matter.

With the government now completing 2.5 years in office, tensions have resurfaced.

Earlier today, Shivakumar remarked at an event: "There is a saying that word power is world power, which means that for us to keep our promise is one of the biggest powers in the world." Adding a veiled comment, he told supporters, "Those who are standing behind me don't know the value of a chair. Instead of sitting in any of the chairs they get, they are unnecessarily standing."

Siddaramaiah's approach has evolved from initially ignoring the issue to taking a more defensive stance. Sources indicate the Chief Minister, who previously expressed desire to retain his position until the next budget, now has supporters prepared to travel to Delhi. They plan to engage with central leadership if discussions about changing the top post arise.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge is expected to consult with the Gandhi family regarding the situation. The plan then appears to be summoning both Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to Delhi for discussions.